Dejan Milojević, assistant coach for the Golden State Warriors, passed away unexpectedly at the age of 46 due to a heart attack. The news of his hospitalization during a team dinner in Salt Lake City shook the basketball world, leading the NBA to postpone the Warriors’ scheduled games against the Utah Jazz and the Dallas Mavericks. Tragically, the team announced Milojević’s untimely demise later that day.
“We are absolutely devastated by Dejan’s sudden passing,” expressed head coach Steve Kerr. “This is a shocking tragic blow for everyone associated with the Warriors and an incredibly difficult time for his family, friends, and all of us who had the incredible pleasure to work with him.”
Milojević was not only an accomplished basketball coach but also a beacon of positivity and kindness. Kerr remarked on his infectious energy, stating, “In addition to being a terrific basketball coach, Dejan was one of the most positive and beautiful human beings I have ever known, someone who brought joy and light to every single day with his passion and energy.”
Born in Belgrade, Serbia, Milojević had an impressive basketball career before entering coaching. He played professional basketball for 14 seasons internationally and was named the Most Valuable Player of the Adriatic League three times consecutively from 2004 to 2006. Additionally, he participated in summer leagues for the Atlanta Hawks, San Antonio Spurs, and Houston Rockets. Milojević’s love for the game extended to coaching, where he spent eight years as the head coach for the Mega Basket team in Belgrade, one season as the head coach of the Budućnost team in the Adriatic Basketball Association league in Montenegro, and finally, three seasons as an assistant coach for the Golden State Warriors.
As news of his passing spread, tributes poured in from the basketball community. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver mourned the loss, saying, “The NBA mourns the sudden passing of Golden State assistant coach Dejan Milojević, a beloved colleague and dear friend to so many in the global basketball community.” The Adriatic league, where Milojević had left an indelible mark, also conveyed their condolences, stating, “Dejan was a player, coach, and most importantly, a great man, he gave us many legendary memories both on and off the court.”
Milojević is survived by his wife, Natasa, and their children, Nikola and Masa. His legacy will be remembered, and his contributions to the sport and the lives he touched will continue to resonate for years to come.
FAQs
1. What was the cause of Dejan Milojević’s death?
Dejan Milojević passed away due to a heart attack, which occurred unexpectedly.
2. What were Dejan Milojević’s notable contributions to basketball?
Dejan Milojević had an illustrious basketball career, playing professionally for 14 seasons internationally and being named the Most Valuable Player of the Adriatic League three times. He also made significant contributions as a coach, including his tenure as an assistant coach for the Golden State Warriors and head coach for the Mega Basket team in Belgrade.
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